The Bandworld Legion of Honor was established in 1989 to honor, over the course of a year, eight of the finest band directors in our business.

Recipients have taught for at least fifteen years, have maintained a very high quality concert band program, and have contributed significantly to the profession through dedication to bands and band music.

Each is honored at an annual Sousa Foundation awards ceremony during the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago.

Chairman of the Legion of Honor Committee is Robert E. Foster, University of Kansas, and Past President of the American Bandmasters Association.

Sheily Bell

Sheily Bell has taught in the public schools of Louisiana since 1973. In 2002 she became Director of Bands at the then new Dutchtown High School in Geismar. Her bands have received superior ratings the past ten years at both the district and state level. She was voted most outstanding band director in Louisiana by Phi Beta Mu and by the Louisiana Band Masters Association.

"I believe that music helps put students in touch with their emotions as they learn about aesthetic awareness. it also teaches individuals how to work with a group. In doing so, they become both leaders and followers."

Michael Genevay

Director of Bands at St. Clement of Rome in Metairie, Louisiana, Michael Genevay has taught for 30 years. He holds a bachelors (1974) and masters (1985) degrees from Loyola University. He was awarded the Magna Cum Laude Award in 2005 by the Women Band Directors International and was elected to the Music Educators Association Hall of Fame in 1999. His bands have achieved superior ratings in Dixie Classic/National Adjudicator' Festivals, Heritage Music Festivals and at district large ensemble festivals since 1987.

"It is the duty of the community to provide every child with music education opportunities. Being fortunate enough to remain in the same school for many years has been most beneficial in building a successful program that meets the needs of the entire school community "